If you’ve used Dragon properly, you’ll notice how much of it requires you to fine tune, correct misrecognitions and customise your vocabulary. To fix problem words, it can require some re-engineering where you use misrecognitions in order to “fool” or bypass the system in order to get the desired result. Sometimes a simple correction isn’t enough. In some cases several corrections of the same issue aren’t enough.
While many of the tips and tricks we typically share are to do with programme usage to tweak the system for optimal results, there are a few things we can recommend purely from a physical standpoint.
1. Keep a Running Troubleshooting List
Dragon is a miraculous product, but that doesn’t mean you won’t encounter niggling issues. Instead of just doing your manual workaround, make a note of the issue to get more value out of your next coaching or tech support session.
2. Print Out the Cheat Sheet
Adopting Dragon is like learning a new language. It involves creating a rhythm to your dictation as well as incorporating a number of commands to speed up simple processes such as switching between windows and formatting documents. So, after our session be sure to ask for the cheat sheet if you haven’t received it already. This handy one-pager will give you the most commonly used and useful commands all in one place so that you can get into the swing of things and maximise your use going forward.
3. Get a Headset Stand
This is a simple tip but you’ll be glad you did. If you’ve got a wireless headset, your product will ordinarily come with a base charging station that will fulfill this function. However, in most cases wired USB headsets, which some people actually prefer, tend to get a bit tangled up. Install a simple hook under your desk for neat storage or get a headset stand from your local tech shop.
4. Make Adjustments for Maximum Comfort
Just because a product is designed a certain way, it doesn’t mean you have to obey the protocol for optimal usage. When it comes to headsets, find out what works best for you. If you’re going to be using it every single day, you need to feel comfortable.
Some clients break the headband from their headsets to use the microphone as a handheld. If you think this is the way to go we can recommend a few handheld recording devices.
Some clients wear the headband around their neck. Just remember to keep the microphone in position and that the boom doesn’t slip down – Dragon is all about consistency.
If you’ve got a quiet office space, you may even consider using your laptop’s onboard array microphone. This is particularly good in controlled audio environments where there isn’t too much background noise. You’ll want to have a noise-cancelling headset on standby for open plan arrangements and working from coffee shops.